Brussels Government Talks Resume with Innovative Coalition Strategy Excluding N-VA from Formal Negotiations
July 13, 2025
Political reactions have emerged following the announcement, with some parties expressing cautious optimism about the prospects of establishing a majority, although N-VA remains excluded from these talks.
This strategy allows N-VA to support the government indirectly, addressing the opposition from PS and the insistence of Open VLD on including N-VA for a functional government.
The Engagés party expressed relief and hope, considering the developments a positive step toward establishing a government in Brussels.
Negotiations involving six parties—MR, PS, Les Engagés, Groen, Open VLD, and Vooruit—are set to resume on July 14, 2025, after weeks of constructive discussions, marking a significant step in forming a Brussels government.
The MR is willing to sacrifice one of its two ministerial portfolios by appointing a compatible N-VA candidate for the Secretary of State position, a move aimed at gaining N-VA support without formal inclusion in negotiations.
N-VA's Cieltje Van Achter called for caution, stating they will monitor the situation to see if it results in a meaningful majority and a functioning government.
Open VLD's Frédéric De Gucht expressed satisfaction with MR’s plan and indicated support for an agreement involving PS and N-VA if negotiations succeed.
Christophe De Beukelaer highlighted the end of vetoes and exclusives, emphasizing the importance of substantive discussions for Brussels residents.
This breakthrough comes over a year after the June 9, 2024, regional elections, with past negotiations strained but now revitalized through renewed connections, notably between Bouchez and PS President Ahmed Laaouej.
MR President Georges-Louis Bouchez previously hinted at a miraculous solution for Brussels, which was initially viewed skeptically but now appears to be part of a broader negotiation strategy.
While political analysts see this as a potentially inventive solution, concerns remain about whether a government can be formed by the proposed deadline of July 21, 2025.
To secure a parliamentary majority, MR plans to appoint a non-affiliated civil society figure as Secretary of State, aiming to build trust among democratic parties in the Brussels Parliament.
More than a year after the elections, significant progress has finally been made in forming a Brussels government, as announced by MR on July 13, 2025.
Summary based on 2 sources